Posted on Saturday, 29-Aug-98

Author's note : I have often thought of this scenario and now that the other story is finished, I am able to move with it. I will be taking some poetic license here, so please bear with me. First things, the first letter from Lydia is taken straight from the book. And the first sentence too, is copied right from the book. The rest is all mine. I hope you enjoy this one.

Chapter I

8 September 1813
Newcastle

y Dear Lizzy, -

I wish you joy. If you love Mr. Darcy half as well as I do my dear Wickham, you must be very happy. It is a great comfort to have you so rich, and when you have nothing else to do, I hope you will think of us. I am sure Wickham would like a place at court very much, and I do not think we shall have quite money enough to live upon without some help. Any place would do, of about three or four hundred a year; but however, do not speak to Mr. Darcy about it, if you had rather not.

- Yours, &c.

As it happened Elizabeth had rather not, she endeavoured in her answer to put an end to every entreaty and expectation of the kind. Elizabeth looked up from her missive and watched her husband as he went over the figures of the estate with his clerk. Darcy caught her eye and gave her a small, but satisfactory smile. She nodded her acknowledgment and quickly folded Lydia's letter and put it in the folds of her dress. As her husband could not be disturbed, she took her writing materials and moved into another room. Elizabeth settled nicely into the drawing room at the small writing desk and started a letter to her sister Jane.

Dearest Jane, -

I hope this letter finds you and Charles well at Netherfield, it has been many weeks since we last wrote to each other. My Fitzwilliam does extraordinarily well and is much busy with the upcoming harvest and the rents due from the tenants. We do have a new tenant. Mr. O'Sullivan from County Cork, Ireland. He is a genteel sort of man with a new bride. The former Miss Kerry Crowley. An odd name, but she is endearing. Fitzwilliam said she was uncommonly pretty with her fiery red hair and very fair complexion. Of course, sister, I playfully slapped his arm. Then to be above shocking! He pulled me into his arms and told me again and again that my dark expressive eyes were worth a hundred of Mrs. Kerry O'Sullivans. I am truly happy, Jane.

Mrs. O'Sullivan is a quiet sort of girl who only opens her mouth when spoken to. She quite reminds me of Miss Darcy when I first came to Pemberley. Before I forget to tell you, sister, Catherine will come to us in a fortnight and Fitzwilliam has fixed on throwing a ball! I do hope you and dear Charles can break free from our family in Hertfordshire and make the journey to us. Fitzwilliam and I would be very pleased indeed.

I now get to the reason of my missive and ask you for your utmost secrecy in what I am to relate to you. Should Fitzwilliam catch wind of my scheme, I know that he would be quite upset with me. What I secretly speak of is a letter from my sister Lydia. She and Wickham are in the middle of financial difficulties and have pressed upon me to help them out without letting Mr. Darcy know. I am considering helping them out, but I do know that Fitzwilliam would be most distressed to hear that his wife has been funding his mortal enemy! I do ask for your advice in this matter. I will send this off as soon as can be.

Until then, I am yours, &c.

Just as Elizabeth was blowing on the wet ink to dry, Darcy came into the room and placed his arms on her shoulders. Elizabeth startled and quickly turned the letter over.

"I did not mean to frighten you." he smiled ironically at his choice of words.

"I was very much deep in thought regarding this letter to Jane I am getting ready to post. I have invited her and Charles to the ball. Are you finished with your clerk?"

Darcy nodded and stirred the fire while Elizabeth went to the sideboard and poured him a brandy. Elizabeth wanted to tell him about the letter from Mrs. Wickham, but knew in doing so that he would question her regarding their financial situation and it would all come out. It disturbed her, nonetheless.

After handing him his drink, she went back to the writing table, folded the letter, franked it and put it in the basket for outgoing posts. Darcy looked thoughtfully at his wife and smile contentedly.

She returned the sentiment and went into his arms. "It has been a very long day and I am glad you are finished with the estate business." She said into his waistcoat.

He pulled away and watched the worry grow over her countenance. "Elizabeth, is something worrying you?"

"No, not worrying me. I just missed you, that is all. I was hoping we could dine above stairs tonight." Darcy agreed and proceeded to the gallery to inform the staff that he and Mrs. Darcy would dine in the ante room and retire early.

After a light meal, Elizabeth picked up her needlepoint and busied herself with that craft. Darcy took up a book he had been attempting to read since his bachelorhood days had ended. Unfortunately, the book was not holding his attention as much as his wife was. He watched her as her eyes narrowed, how she smoothed the fabric and pulled the thread tighter. A soft sigh emanated from his lips.

She looked up and smiled. "Does your book not hold your attention, Mr. Darcy?"

"Aha! So I am Mr. Darcy, eh?"

"And do you have a problem with your surname?" she teased.

"Well," he said softly. "It is not what I would call -- romantic."

"Did Mr. Darcy want to become -- romantic?" she persisted on.

He nodded his head enthusiastically and Elizabeth laid down her needlepoint and knelt down before him. "How romantic did Mr. Darcy want to be?" He leaned forward and in one swoop had her up on his lap.

"How romantic would Mrs. Darcy like to see Mr. Darcy get?" He kissed her cheek.

"Not at all, I assure you." She laughed while he feigned being wounded by her words. He traced the outline of her chin before trailing his fingers to her neck. She closed her eyes.

"Mrs. Darcy, shall I perhaps stop?"

"No, No. You may continue." He moved his hand to the side of her neck and thrillingly tantalized the back of her neck. A soft moan escaped from her.

"I think," she whispered hoarsely. "I think, I am quite tired now." She flashed him a brilliant look and quickly got off his lap. She held out her hand to him and together they entered the bedchamber.

Chapter II

Posted on Sunday, 30-Aug-98

Miss Darcy and Mrs. Darcy waited outside for Fitzwilliam and Catherine to arrive after their long journey from Hertfordshire. When the barouche finally stopped in front of the ladies, Fitzwilliam alighted first, then handed down his sister-in-law. Elizabeth stepped forward and gave her sister a kiss.

Darcy mentioned lightly, as they had a wearing journey and had not had food for several hours, that tea would set him up remarkably well. Elizabeth had thought as much and had tea and scones brought into the drawing room. Catherine looked around in awe at the paintings and fancy, but elegant furniture. She looked back at her sister in wonder at such grandeur. Miss Darcy forwarded herself due to Darcy's prodding and offered to show Miss Kitty (as she still like to be called) to her bedchamber.

When Miss Darcy and Miss Bennet excused themselves, Darcy smiled tiredly at his wife. She poured out, while he settled comfortably on the chair opposite her. Having stayed for refreshments at the Bennets' had proved to be exhausting. Mrs. Bennet's nerves went apoplectic when Kitty was saying her good-byes. Mary uttered some nonsense to Darcy, and Mr. Bennet laughed amusingly at the situation at hand. Indeed, Mr. Darcy's forbearance in doing this errand for his wife, was ample indeed.

After Elizabeth handed Darcy his tea and scone, she asked the servant to bring down the two young ladies for tea.

"Was it really that bad, dearest?" she asked soothingly.

He laughed and shook his head, but said that he was glad that he did not have to make that journey often.

"When I arrived, the house was in a state. It seems the Wickhams are moving yet again. Mrs. Bennet cursed that odious Mr. Wickham for making her precious daughter move again. Mr. Bennet just rolled his eyes at me and sighed. And Mary again, mentioned something about fortitude and overspending their means."

Elizabeth coloured slightly when he mentioned the Wickhams. Since receiving Lydia's letter, and then Jane's approving of the idea of sending them the much-needed funds, she had been sending them her money, which was distributed to her upon her marriage. Darcy knew all along that he would never take what was rightfully hers and told her to do with it what she wanted. Elizabeth had given them in total one hundred pounds, just enough to discharge some creditors and head off to another location. She knew it would not be long before they would ask for more.

She had rather wished to invite Lydia to stay with her, but somehow knew that Mrs. Wickham would not stay away from her husband too long, and that gentleman (if one could call him a gentleman) was most seriously not wanted within the hallowed halls of Pemberley.

Georgiana and Kitty came into the drawing room and again Elizabeth poured out while she asked Kitty about traveling into Derbyshire.

"Mr. Darcy's barouche was comfortable." She turned from her formidable brother-in-law, and whispered to her sister, "I could not speak to him. I thought he would set me down at any moment." Elizabeth looked to her husband who had conveniently looked away.

"Kitty, Mr. Darcy has not the talent of conversing with pretty young girls unless they are his wife or sister." Georgiana, still shocked by the manner in which Elizabeth talked to her brother, turned her head to allow a slight smile. However, Darcy, did not take kindly to the joke. He was learning, albeit, quite slowly.

Darcy hid his blush by sipping his tea. "I do not think that Miss Kitty had much to say other than 'how much further'. We both had not much to say to one another, and she slept most of the distance."

Elizabeth smiled at her husband teasingly. Georgiana again forwarding herself, asked Miss Bennet what gown she had planned on wearing for the ball. The two girls giggled it up and sipped tea while trying to figure out who would do what at the ball. Darcy rolled his eyes.

Elizabeth leaned into him, and said: "This is what it will be like when we have our own children, Darcy. We may have to get used to this chatting up and giggling."

Darcy sighed and sat back and listened to his two young charges. Mrs. Reynolds entered with the post, and handed all the letters to Elizabeth. She glanced furtively through and saw what she had been expecting. She hastily made her apologies and retreated to the sofa to read this letter. Darcy looked at her quizzically.

"Anything wrong, Elizabeth?"

"No. Nothing wrong. Perhaps, I shall just take this to the study. You stay here. Georgiana, will you pour out for your brother?" Georgiana nodded her head, and they all watched Elizabeth as she exited the room.

28 September 1813
Liverpool

My dear favorite sister, -

We received your post in good time, and the draft was also included. My Wickham cannot thank you enough. He has called you the sweetest angel of his acquaintance.

Elizabeth shuddered at the line.

As you can tell from the direction of this letter, we have moved yet again. The lodgings we have taken are quite within our means, and I hope to be here for a while. We did leave Newcastle quite suddenly. However, I must trespass on your kindness once more, and ask if you could send a mere fifty pounds. I will tell you in the next letter what it is for, but for now, I cannot divulge the reason. I know that you do not want this transaction getting back to Mr. Darcy, and you may be assured of my secrecy.

Elizabeth wondered at that, but took it in good faith.

Thank you again for all you have done. I am yours, &c.

Elizabeth again folded the letter and put it in the folds of her dress. She wondered how she could ever send fifty pounds without Fitzwilliam finally catching on to her scheme. Jane was due to arrive in two days' time, and Elizabeth would hold out sending the Wickhams more money until she could discuss it with her sister. Somehow sending for Lydia was sounding more and more palatable.

Chapter III

Posted on Tuesday, 01-Sep-98

With the arrival of the Bingleys, came unseasonably warm weather. Darcy ordered the windows opened to their fullest in the drawing room, so the breeze from the wooded area would bring some well needed coolness into the warm house. Elizabeth had Mrs. Reynolds find her yellow muslin dress that would suit her for such warm weather. Small beads of perspiration made her skin glisten. Darcy handed her a cool cloth to wipe over her forehead.

"I am sorry, dearest. This weather is just so unpredictable. Not two days before, did we think the frost would do harm to the harvest."

"One gets used to this from being in the north country, Elizabeth. It will happen again next year and the year after that and so on," he smiled playfully at her and handed the fan to her.

"Jane and I were going to take a walk along the lake, should you and Charles like to join us?" she silently hoped that other matters would be too pressing for him. She really needed time with her sister. Elizabeth looked anxiously at him and the flushed look spreading across her face, gave him pause.

"Elizabeth, are you well? You do not look well. Are you... can you be? Shall I call the doctor? ..." she stopped him.

"No, Fitzwilliam, I am not."

"Well, perhaps I should send for the doctor then."

"Absolutely not, I am well. So the lake, dear, are you coming?"

"No, no. Charles and I are going to play billiards. Go along with yourself, and if you feel lightheaded at all, I demand you to come right back to the house." He said strongly.

"Yes, sir." She left the room.

Jane waited by the side entrance for Elizabeth. The staff had been working diligently trying to keep Pemberley cool, and the occupants cool as well. Kitty and Georgiana took out a couple of horses and had been gone for a couple of hours. Jane rose when Elizabeth entered the room.

"Oh Lizzy, it is so good to be here at Pemberley. Charles just loves coming here, and I do too, sweet Lizzy."

"Jane, I am glad you are come. It means a lot to me and Fitzwilliam, but first let us go down by the lake. I need to discuss Lydia with you." Jane nearly groaned when that name was mentioned.

"She has not asked you for more..." Elizabeth cut her off.

"Down by the lake."

They settled on a spot under a shady tree and watched the waterfowl in the lake. Mrs. Johnson had set up drinks and crudités, they munched happily, smiled and laughed. Jane told her about escapades with the superior sisters, Caroline and Louisa. Elizabeth told her how well Catherine was faring away from the influence of Longbourn and Lydia. Speaking of the latter, brought a darkness over Elizabeth's face and concern to Jane's.

Elizabeth spewed forth. "The Wickhams, as you may know by now, have taken up residence in Liverpool. She wrote that they are living within their means and yes, she does ask for more money -- fifty pounds."

"Fifty pounds! After you have just given them one hundred pounds. What is she about, do you think?"

"I presume too much, but I believe that Mr. Wickham is putting her up to this. He needs to repay his creditors and the only way he can get the funds is through Mr. Darcy. Darcy would never help him out, even by my persuasion."

"What shall you do?"

"Oh, Jane. I was hoping you could send me down that path and let me know what I should do?"

"You should talk to Mr. Darcy, Lizzy. He would steer you in the right direction."

"No. That is out of the question. I was thinking of bringing Lydia here, but I do not think I would get much information from her, and Fitzwilliam will never allow Mr. Wickham here. I think I will send her the money with a note telling her that she should not expect any more. One hundred and fifty pounds! What would father say about such a sum?" she laughed lightheartedly.

"I do not like this, Lizzy." Jane cautioned.

"It will be fine, I tell you." She smiled shakily at her sister and gathered up the basket. "We should head back. I have got a letter to write." Jane shook her head unhappily at Elizabeth who chose not to see the frown on Jane's face.

Pemberley,
October 6

Dear Mrs. Wickham, -

I am glad you are well and that you received the draft that was sent to you. I hope you enjoy your time in Liverpool. I suspect that these little niceties are not to your liking, so I will hurry on with what you asked for. Lydia, fifty pounds is never mere, and as I have given you one hundred pounds, you are imposing yourself on me in way that I never would have thought you could do. However...

Enclosed you will find a draft for five hundred pounds. Do with it what you will, but I urge you to never seek monetary funds from this house again. Mr. Darcy still does not know that I have been giving you money and should he find out yet, such trouble would occur. Please take this entreaty seriously. I am yours &c.

Elizabeth sighed, put the draft into the letter, franked it and put it in the basket for outgoing posts. Fitzwilliam probably would never forgive this impertinence should he find out, and finding out was something that he must never, ever do.

"Elizabeth!" Darcy called out loudly. "Elizabeth, darling, where are you?"

"In the study, Fitzwilliam," he came in breathlessly, "what are you about, dearest?"

"Jane said you were not feeling well. I am sending for Mr. Parker, after all."

"Fitzwilliam Darcy, you will do no such thing. I am quite well. I have been answering a most pressing, urgent letter that I received some days ago. It is done now."

"Will you tell me what is disturbing you."

She closed her eyes and sighed. "Dearest, nothing is disturbing me, but your thinking that I am unwell. Now, I have details I need to go over with Mrs. Reynolds. Have you forgot that we are throwing a ball in two days' time?"

"We shall cancel it, darling. If you are unwell."

"I am not unwell, and you will do no such thing. What would people think of us canceling a ball two days before it is to be given? My aunt and uncle Gardiner will also be of the party and will stay with us. I did not think you would have a problem with that."

He smiled. "Edward and I can fish with Bingley. Elizabeth, do you think of everything?"

"Yes. I do. Now, be gone with yourself, you bore me." She tried to sound serious, but Darcy laughed out loud and she followed suit.

Chapter IV

Posted on Wednesday, 02-Sep-98

Lydia read the letter and nearly fainted. Five hundred pounds! She wondered if she should tell Wickham about the fortune that had just befell them. She was inwardly rejoicing that she didn't have to pay any of it back.

The dank and small lodgings they were in, were even getting on Lydia's usually good-tempered nerves. She hated the idea of moving again and again, but her husband's spending habits was going to quickly put them into a debtor's prison. Lydia's entreaties to her husband to stop spending all the money, would fall on deaf ears, and whenever he mentioned a card game or gaming tables, she cringed.

With this windfall, she could safely pay the creditors and still have at least two hundred pounds left. George came home in his usual foul mood, and Lydia quickly placed a bowl of gruel in front of him. A small amount splashed onto him.

"Blast, woman! Can you do nothing right!"

"Oh, I think I can do a lot that is right." She yelled back to him. "I can at least admit that I made a mistake when I married you." She still cursed Darcy for forcing this upon her, even if at the time it sounded like a good idea.

He spied the note from Elizabeth and hastened to grab it, but Lydia beat him to it. If he read the missive, the five hundred pounds would be gone within the hour.

"I don't think you need to know the latest gossip between sisters, Wickham."

"Elizabeth wants nothing to do with you, me and what we represent; so tell me what is in the letter? How much does she send us this time?"

"If you stopped gambling your money away, we would not need to go to the Darcys for funds to keep us out of a debtor's prison."

Lydia took the note and put in her dress, she knew that it must be destroyed; but how that was going to take place, would prove to be difficult. Wickham looked at her sideways and gave her bottom a quick, but hard slap.

"Darcy is a man with enough funds to keep the two of us out of a debtor's prison for many years. After what he did to me," Lydia cringed, she did not want to hear how Darcy ruined George's life by not giving him the living at Kympton. Lydia could never see herself as the wife of a vicar. The odious Mr. Collins came to mind and she shuddered. "We would be happy. The two of us, living in a parsonage..."

"Yes, and you preaching to all the lovely fifteen year olds. Somehow, I don't think preaching is to your suitability, George. You make a better scoundrel, than preacher."

George laughed at her. Her bitterness of late was at one time starting to bother him, but it kept her away from him at night, which is what he wanted anyway.

Lydia at the beginning of their marriage proved to have an insatiable appetite for carnality, and at first it intrigued Wickham, as his lustful thoughts and urges needed to be satisfied. But after a year of marriage, his enthusiasm for her had waned, and her insatiability cooled down immensely. They became mere bedpartners and only because the two-room abode they lived in did not spare room for another bed.

Lydia was desolate and wanted to go home, and five hundred pounds would take her there.

Darcy joined his wife late one extremely warm evening as she walked around the gardens. She wore a loose-fitting dressing gown that silhouetted her body in the moonlight. Darcy would have rebuked her for wearing such a costume, but with the full moon, and her lovely body before him, it took his breath away. While her back was to him, he gently fitted his arms around her waist, and gently kissed her neck.

"Mr. Bingley, what would people say!" she laughed.

"They would say that he was extremely senseless for even attempting to get this close to Fitzwilliam Darcy's most beautiful and engaging wife. Although, he is my best friend, I would demand his head on a platter, and have you do the dance of the seven veils around it."

Elizabeth turned around with a shocked look on her face. Darcy nuzzled her neck again. "You think I would allow another man to touch my wife. Insupportable. Elizabeth, you are mine -- wholly, emotionally, and physically." He pulled her closer to him, and held her tightly.

She wrapped her arms tightly around him and softly started sobbing. He felt her body move in a way that notified him that something was wrong. He pulled back from her and wiped her tears from her cheeks. "Elizabeth, I really wouldn't make you dance the dance of the seven veils." She smiled at him.

"Fitzwilliam, I love you more than anything in this world."

"However..." he finished her thought.

"It's so warm and having you so close is, I must admit, making me even warmer." She smiled shyly to him.

"Do you realise when the moon catches you in that certain way, your body shines through the fabric. I would have a portrait of you in this dressing gown, under this moon, in my arms..." she kissed him deeply.

"Did Mr. Darcy want to get romantic again?"

"Only if Mrs. Darcy wants Mr. Darcy." He grinned at her.

"Mr. Darcy, I have news for you..."

He undid the top three buttons to her gown. "Any news you have can wait, Elizabeth. Oh Elizabeth, I love you." He kissed her arm.

"But..." she started as he kissed her ear.

"No." He undid two more buttons. "It will wait. I cannot." He pulled her down.

Chapter V

Posted on Friday, 04-Sep-98

The woman entered the dim pub and went to the barkeep. She placed down a fiver and wagged her finger at him. He walked over to her and leaned into her. She put her lips to his ear and whispered to him. He removed the fiver from the bar and directed her out the back door. She thanked him after he handed her a couple of pastries and fruit and headed to the mail cart.

Lydia was on her way to London.

Lydia awoke when the mail cart entered London. Here she would have to quit the carriage and hopefully, her aunt and uncle Gardiner would be hospitable enough to allow her to stay until she could prevail upon her parents to let her stay with them.

If her marriage was almost such a scandal, this would torment them for the rest of their lives.

The Gardiner's butler answered the door to Mrs. Wickham and promptly showed her into the drawing room. He informed her that the master and mistress were at church and would return in three-quarters of an hour. Lydia mentioned that she wouldn't mind waiting, at which the butler rolled his eyes at her, while she glared at him. She asked him for tea and food to be brought in. She hadn't eaten anything in hours and felt quite close to swooning due to lack of nutrients.

He yes ma'amed her and went on his way. Lydia nosily poked around the room and saw a half-written letter addressed to Elizabeth Darcy. Of course her curiosity piqued, Lydia started to read it.

Gracechurch Street
Oct.14th

My Dear Niece,-

Receiving your last letter brought such joy to our house. When I informed Mr. Gardiner of the Ball at Pemberley, he mentioned that I may still have my ride around the park in the phaeton yet. I was a little puzzled about your little secret and having to keep it from Mr. Darcy? But yet, you didn't tell me what the secret was?

Lydia looked at the note again and was shocked at what she had read. All Elizabeth had done was give her money. Why should that prove to be so problematic? If Wickham hadn't gambled all of their money away, she never would have needed to ask. But as Darcy had given them money for the wedding, and Wickham spent all ten thousand pounds of it, they shouldn't mind helping family once in a while at all.

Of course, Darcy giving Wickham the ten thousand pounds was provisional. The Wickhams were to have absolutely no contact with the Darcys or anyone else at Pemberley. George had neglected to inform Lydia that she was to have no contact with Elizabeth. And if George gambled away all the money, he was to never, ever come to him for more. He was giving him more money than a scoundrel like him deserved. Darcy told him he wanted him out of his life forever.

The butler wheeled in the tea cart and Lydia gorged on the food that was presented to her. Again he rolled his eyes at her, and she excused him so she could eat in peace.

The Gardiners did indeed return at the appropriate time and were quite taken aback at the presence of Lydia Wickham who was quite alone. Mrs. Gardiner went to her niece and hugged her dearly. Even though she still had bad remembrances of the last time she entertained that young lady, it would do no god to bring it up now. Mr. Gardiner enquired after George Wickham and Lydia feigned indifference to the question.

Mrs. Gardiner kept her tone level, but heightened the force of the question. "Lydia, where is your husband?"

Lydia stuffed down some finger sandwiches before answering, and then answered while chewing. "I've left him." She said nonchalantly.

Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner looked beyond shocked. It was incomprehensible, and the idea that Lydia thought nothing of it, was most disturbing. Shocking, no less.

The Gardiner's excused themselves and left Lydia to her food. Mr. Gardiner quickly, but spiritedly, led her to the dining room to talk.

"If we thought her elopement was a tragedy, this could prove worse." Mr. Gardiner paced around the room. Mrs. Gardiner was still too stunned to speak. "Darcy would never help us now. And we can't exactly bring her to Pemberley with us. No, we have to tell her to go back."

"Maybe we should listen to her story before we make any rash judgments? We should give her the benefit of the doubt." The always diplomatic Mrs. Gardiner reasoned. He kissed her cheek and agreed with her. They both headed back into the drawing room.

"How did you get here?" Mr. Gardiner asked.

"Mail cart." She said pointedly.

"You took a mail cart? Why did you take a mail cart?" he asked incredulously.

"He doesn't know I've gone. Well, he must now, of course. But I left when he was sleeping. I went to the pub and the pub keeper put me on the mail cart."

Mr. Gardiner found it difficult trying to control his temper. "Why did you leave him?"

"Because I couldn't take it anymore. His gambling away all the money and my scrounging for food. His forcing me to ask Elizabeth for money, when he knew all along that Mr. Darcy would not condone it. La, she begged me to tell no one."

Mrs. Gardiner realised what Elizabeth was keeping from her husband and knew that if that gentleman found out, he would be upset indeed.

Mrs. Gardiner spoke up at last: "How much did she give you?"

"Six hundred pounds." She said happily.

Mrs. Gardiner swayed at such a staggering amount. "How much did Wickham spend?" Mr. Gardiner said as he caught his wife and walked her to the sofa.

"Wicky only knew about the one hundred pounds. I didn't tell him about the five hundred that Lizzy sent me the other day."

"And Mr. Darcy has no clue about this money that she has been sending you?"

"Absolutely not, she begged me to keep it such a secret. Should he find out, he would... La, I don't know how'd he react."

"How long do you think it will be before he came looking for you?"

"Never. I was hoping to stay here for a night, then take the post to Longbourn after I've informed them that I was here. Of course."

Mr. Gardiner smiled. "Of course."

Chapter VI

Posted on Monday, 07-Sep-98

Elizabeth took care of final preparations for the ball that was taking place later that evening. She chose the outfit that she wanted her husband in, and the blue coat with the gray striped waistcoat would be absolute perfection on him. He would have preferred the valet to choose his attire, but Darcy was famous for giving in to every whim his wife desired. Adoration was a word that was used frequently in the Pemberley household, and the staff admired him for allowing his countenance to show his adoration.

Pemberley was all a-flutter with activity and preparations, and Mrs. Reynolds had to shoo Elizabeth away and force her to dress for the ball. Elizabeth -- nervous and anxious -- did not need a repeat of the last ball that she had thrown. Mr. Fulham had been allergic to some berries that were in a pie and became quite asphyxiated, it ended the ball immediately. Although the man lived, Elizabeth felt absolutely terrible and knew that people would talk about the mistress of Pemberley as trying to kill her guests.

Darcy still managed to get a chuckle out of it.

Elizabeth sat and looked at her reflection hesitatingly. She brushed out the curls and worked her fingers through them to give them a little bounce. She had not put on her gown yet and sat looking at herself in her corset and petticoat. I've put weight on, she thought sadly. With the rich food and quantity of food constantly being bestowed upon her; how could she not? She knew she was not with child. Mr. Darcy never said anything about her figure of late and she wondered if he noticed.

Mrs. Abernathy, Elizabeth's personal maid, came in with a letter and to help the mistress dress. Elizabeth looked at the direction of the envelope and with trembling hands, opened it.

Yorkshire
Oct 12th

My Dearest Sister, -

I thought my time had come to thank you for your generous nature in helping out me and your sister. As you know, I have quit the regulars and finding another appointment has proved to be difficult. You sister does remarkably well and I love her more than life itself. If that is at all possible.

I must trespass on your kindness once more and beg you to condescend to lend us some funds. Two hundred pounds would be enough to get the two of us back on our feet. I know that discretion is important to you. And my modesty implores that this transaction will never go before the ears of your most esteemed husband.

Lydia sends her love of course, as do I; you are an angel sent from heaven, my dear sister. Yours &tc, George Wickham

Elizabeth nearly fainted at the letter. Her funds were low, and she could not and must not ask Fitzwilliam for any. Mrs. Abernathy saw the flushed look cover Mrs. Darcy's body and quickly made her way to help her.

Elizabeth blinked back tears and excused her maid. She then proceeded to lock the door. Mrs. Abernathy, always attentive to Mrs. Darcy's behaviours, went immediately to Mr. Darcy and apprised him of the situation. She mentioned a letter, Elizabeth becoming quite vexed, then red, then she was excused.

"And the missus, ain't quite dressed, sir." She volunteered.

Darcy raced up the stairs two at a time and came to the ornately decorated mahogany door that was his wife's bedchamber. He turned the knob, but it wouldn't turn. He softly rapped on the door. She didn't answer. His rapping became louder, and she still didn't answer.

Finally he sent for the upstairs maid to fetch him the key. She returned but moments later with key in hand, and he let himself in. Elizabeth stood at the doorway with a perplexed look on face. Her composure was happy, even if Darcy didn't see that it was a forced happiness.

"Do you always break into a woman's bedchamber whilst she is dressing, sir." She said hotly.

"What is going on with you, Elizabeth? You have been acting odd for weeks now. What letter did you receive that upset you?" he demanded.

She feigned ignorance. "I haven't a clue as to what you are talking about. I have not received a letter." She smiled sweetly at him.

"Mrs. Abernathy came down and told me that you became upset due to a letter you had received. Where is the blasted missive?" he said angrily.

"I would appreciate it very much if you did not brook that tone with me, sir," she raised her voice at him. The first time she had done so in their marriage.

"And I will not have my wife..." he didn't finish the sentence. "Elizabeth, I love you and want you to confide in me." His tone was decidedly softer.

She smiled, but turned away and finished with her toilette. She didn't look at him when she said, "I am fine, Fitzwilliam. Would you care to help me to dress for this evening?"

He looked strangely at her and pursued it no longer. He was not happy with her, but it wouldn't do to show his unhappiness at the ball.

Mrs. Gardiner thought it wise not to let Elizabeth know that Lydia had left her husband and headed into London prior to their departure to Derbyshire. Once Lydia was ensconced at Longbourn, the Bennets were told never to disclose that Lydia was there. They did not need Wickham coming and looking for her.

Mr. Gardiner held on to his wife's arm and felt her shudder as they made their way up the stone stairs into the grand estate of Pemberley.

He turned to his wife, and placing a small kiss on her cheek, mentioned, "Elizabeth will be well. She need not know what is going on. Especially tonight."

"You are so right, my dear. We shall dance and have a good time and admire our niece and her wonderful husband." They could hear the beautiful music as they entered the foyer where they were greeted by liveried servants shedding them of their wraps and coats.

Mr. Darcy noticed the Gardiners first and hastily made his way to them. Elizabeth was entertaining the aforesaid Mr. Fulham (she informed him that no berries would be served tonight) and was keeping her distance from her husband. He still managed to look upon her dubiously, and it had bothered her endlessly.

Mr. Gardiner shook Darcy's hand and he leaned into kiss his aunt on the cheek. These were good people that Darcy admired and loved as well as certain members of his own family.

"I hope all is well in London with you and the children. I will be down in London in a fortnight and would like to have dinner with you," Darcy said spiritedly.

"That would be lovely, Mr. Darcy. We look forward to your arrival. Will Lizzy be of the party?"

"No. I must go down for business. She will stay here with Georgiana and Catherine. Have you seen her? She was speaking to a gentleman over there." He pointed in the direction of his wife, but made no eye contact. The lady and gentleman looked at each other.

"How has Catherine been?"

"Just fine. She and Georgiana are as thick as thieves. Wandering around the landscape for hours, taking in purchasing excursions to Lambton. The wallet is lighter with all these women in the house." He joked, but Mrs. Gardiner turned red and it did not go unnoticed by Darcy.

He narrowed his eyes. "Come, I would like to introduce you to some people from Lambton. You may even know one, Mrs. Gardiner. Mrs. Hannah Cromwell." Mrs. Gardiner smiled and mentioned that she did indeed know Mrs. Cromwell.

Elizabeth watched the conversation between her husband and aunt and uncle with bated breath. She had moved away from Mr. Fulham and situated herself closer to Darcy and the Gardiners. However, she also threw herself into the path of Miss Bingley.

"I'm quite surprised that the host and hostess of this fantastic ball have yet to dance with each other. Don't you find it quite strange that you have not danced with your husband at all, Mrs Darcy?"

Elizabeth thought for a moment, and checked the nasty repartee she could have come back with. "No, I do not find it strange, as we both have been receiving guests. But as I do see my husband heading towards me, I believe we may be able to satisfy your curiosity to see us dance, after all," she smiled cheekily at her.

Mr. Darcy came upon his wife and did indeed ask her to dance. Elizabeth turned to Miss Bingley and offered her apologies for ending the discourse so soon.

"I hope that Mr. Darcy could spare one dance for an old friend?" Miss Bingley said quickly.

"Of course, madam." He said before leading Elizabeth to the dance floor.

After the first set, Elizabeth started making light conversation with her husband. "Are you enjoying this ball?"

"It is well, I suppose."

"You just suppose? Miss Bingley wants to know why you have been avoiding your wife."

"Have I?" he said stiffly.

She laughed. "Yes, we have not greeted the guests together and people will start talking."

"Will they?"

"Mr. Darcy can you speak in something more than just a monosyllable. Can you string a noun and a verb together possibly with an adjective and make a complete sentence?"

He looked at her. "I can."

She became annoyed. "But you will not? Is that it?"

He pulled her off the dance floor and brought her into his private study. He leaned against the door so no one would try to come in. Elizabeth paced the room for a moment. "Why did you bring me here. What will people say?"

"Dammit, Elizabeth, tell me what is going on and now," he said forcefully.

She sighed, "Nothing. Absolutely nothing. I am well, cannot you see that?" she smiled brightly. She came closer to him and moved the unruly lock of hair that fell down his forehead and over his eye.

She breathed in his scent from being so close and attempted to kiss him on the cheek to prove to him that nothing was the matter. But he turned away.

"No, Elizabeth, that will not work. You will not use your feminine wiles to get me to forget that there is something going on, and you are conspiring to keep it from me."

"I am doing no such thing! And I am insulted that you would think such a thought."

But it was too late, he had already left the room and went to attend the guests.

Once Elizabeth composed herself, she headed back into the ballroom. The next dance was a waltz. It had been taking England by storm and Fitzwilliam was quite fond of it.

The next scene had shocked her so much that she had to leave the room for some fresh air outside. After leaving her side in the study, Darcy pointedly went to Miss Bingley and asked her to dance the waltz.

Chapter VII

Posted on Monday, 07-Sep-98

Author's Note: I hated how I left Ch. VI. I know I've taken some poetic license here, so forgive me. Just another note: Georgiana's favorite symphony is also my favorite and I heard it performed live by the Boston Symphony Orchestra and it was wonderful!!!!

Elizabeth was followed outside by Colonel Fitzwilliam. The weather was still unseasonably warm, and all that was needed was a shawl or wrap to cover her bare shoulders. She leaned against the verandah's rail and breathed in the scent of the woods. It invigorated her.

She didn't notice the Colonel until he was almost upon her, and she startled fairly quickly.

"Why are you not dancing, Mrs. Darcy?" he asked good-humouredly.

"I didn't have a partner, I'm afraid. Mr. Darcy decided to ask Miss Bingley." She raised her eyebrow and shrugged her shoulders. He smiled at her.

"So, would you fancy a dance with me. We'll show Darcy how a waltz is supposed to be done."

"Would you be terribly upset if I declined this one? I just need to be alone for a few minutes. I'll join you momentarily."

He looked her over and saw the brightness that usually lit her eyes, gone. Her usually witticisms, seemed dry. Her countenance -- depressed. He turned and watched Darcy dancing with Caroline and smiling. They seemed to be having a good time. Elizabeth followed his gaze and frowned.

"I will join you shortly, sir." He took up her hand and squeezed it tightly. Then quit her company.

Elizabeth checked the tears. She did bring this on herself. If Fitzwilliam was angry or upset with her, she had no one to blame but herself. And the blasted Wickhams. She was not an angel, nor would she help them out anymore. It was putting a terrible strain on her and her marriage. She closed her eyes and decided that she would tell her husband about the money and the letter. He would be cross with her for not stating anything earlier, but she could handle his crossness. Losing his trust was another issue. Would he trust her again?

She heard the music end and watched as people applauded the orchestra. Darcy put two fingers to his lips and blew her a kiss. She smiled. Elizabeth headed back into the ballroom, and talked to her aunt and uncle for a short time. Jane and Bingley came up to her wondering when dinner would be served.

Elizabeth momentarily panicked. "Oh dear, dinner. I will have it announced -- straight-away."

Elizabeth flew by her guests. She was known as very energetic and seeing the young mistress of Pemberley tear across the floor brought much amusement to the guests. Darcy caught the tailwind of his wife, and waited for her to re-emerge from the cook's quarters.

Darcy smiled at Elizabeth, and she gave him a tentative smile back. He didn't want this night to be ruined by the pride of both master and mistress of Pemberley. And if he had to admit that he was in the wrong to see to it, for Elizabeth, he would be willing to forgive her anything.

When the guests were assembled in the dining room, Darcy walked his wife to her seat on the right of him, and helped her into it. He surreptitiously stroked her cheek and then sat down.

The noise level reached a fever pitch as any and all topics were being conversed about. Most people mentioned how lovely the food was. Most of the men discussed whether General Wellington would be able to stop Napoleon's army again. Colonel Fitzwilliam was a staunch supporter of the former, and loathed the very name of the latter. Even Darcy became embroiled in the spirited discussion. Elizabeth chatted quite contentedly to Jane and her aunt.

The second course was brought out, and again guests marveled at Mrs. Darcy's ability.

She leaned conspiratorially to her husband and laughed. "I didn't exactly cook the food." He brought his hand to her knee under the table and gently squeezed it. Her hand quickly found his, and she laced her fingers through his.

Colonel Fitzwilliam cleared his throat several times trying to get Darcy's attention.

"Yes, regarding Napoleon, Darcy..." Colonel said while stifling a laugh.

"Oh yes, Napoleon. I think he is no longer a threat. Wellington put him in his place, and I find that Elba probably agrees with the tyrant."

"Darcy, Napoleon has left Elba and has started forming a new army, that is what we were discussing."

Elizabeth brought her hand up to her napkin and quietly laughed into it. He looked at her and caught her laugh. He shook his head.

After dinner had been served, the men went to the drawing room for cigars and brandy while the ladies headed into the massive sitting room for music and tea. Elizabeth was prevailed upon to play at the pianoforte and although, she heartily tried to get out of it, Georgiana opened up the instrument and walked her sister to it.

Darcy had brought back some new music for Georgiana, and Elizabeth had taken such a liking to the composer that she learned the new piece. Her interpretation of it was so lovely that it would reduce Georgiana to tears.

Mrs. Cromwell spoke up first. "What piece is Mrs. Darcy to dazzle us with." Elizabeth blushed slightly.

Georgiana offered: "Ludwig Van Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata", it is beyond the most beautiful piece of music. He even outdoes Mozart with his piano sonatas."

Mrs. Cromwell laughed, "I have met Herr Beethoven, he is a most disagreeable man. Snaps at everyone, and forces one to look right at him when you talk to him. I have heard that he is stone deaf."

"Well for someone who is stone deaf, Mrs. Cromwell, he does indeed write beautiful music. His seventh symphony is my all-time favourite of his. Lizzy, would you play for us now?"

Elizabeth started the first movement slowly. With the first notes, the women became riveted to their seats. As she picked up the tempo, she saw in the corner of her eye, Darcy watching her from the terrace. The look on his face as she played this piece bespoke a peaceful calm.

Georgiana saw him straining to hear from the closed French doors, and walked stealthily to them and opened them for him. Elizabeth's playing wafted to where the men were, and they all followed Darcy onto the terrace. Most men congratulating on such an accomplished wife. Her fingering of the notes brought just enough depth to the music. Her body flowed naturally with the music, exciting Darcy in the process.

At the end of the first movement a round of applause went up. Darcy stood behind his wife and smiled ever so sweetly to her. He placed a warm, comforting hand on her shoulder. He found a seat among the women (as did the other men, this was a treat that they didn't mind enduring) and continued to listen to his most beautiful and accomplished wife.

Chapter VIII

Posted on Wednesday, 16-Sep-98

After music -- and meditations between the two principals in the room -- everyone went back to enjoy the ball. Mrs. Cromwell told anyone and all about Herr Beethoven's well-known temper -- Mr. Fulham thanked Mrs. Darcy for doing away with the berries this year. And Elizabeth and Fitzwilliam Darcy dazzled the crowd with superior dancing and conversation, and when the guests checked their timepieces, it was well into the early hours of the morning.

Darcy and Elizabeth saw each guest to their respective coaches and carriages and wished them a good journey home. Although some people were allowed the luxury of staying at Pemberley, a scant few took them up on the offer.

Darcy extinguished the hall candles and waited a few minutes, on the order of his wife, before entering the bedchamber. It had been a physically and emotionally exhausting day, but he was up to the task for whatever his wife was planning for him. He smiled. He counted to ten, then entered the chamber.

Elizabeth lay-a-bed smiling beatifically at her husband. He walked over to her and proceeded to pull her up to his level. With her close to him, he gently kissed her.

"I must get out of these clothes. The valet is in the my chamber waiting for me. I'll be right back." He kissed her again.

Elizabeth laid back against the pillow fighting the sleep that was coming to claim her. She too, was exhausted, spent and nervous. She had written a response to Wickham, hiding it just moments before Darcy came into the room, with yet another draft of two hundred pounds. This letter was more forceful than the previous ones. She would support the two of them no more. And if they deigned to ask for more money, Darcy would most certainly be told, and then God knows what would be done. She noted to herself that she would never tell Darcy of her charitable endeavors to her sister and brother-in-law.

Darcy came in and quickly got into the bed. Pulling her close to him, he apologised for his past behavior, which she shushed. He kissed the back of her head, taking in the fragrant smell of her hair.

Darcy turned Elizabeth over to face and again, pulled her closer to him. He kissed her passionately, while she moved her hand through his hair. He didn't stop; he didn't want to stop. He poured all of his self into her, wanting to own her -- wanting to conquer something, but knew not what.

Elizabeth pulled from his embrace and stared intently at him. She knew he loved her almost to the point of distraction. She also knew that she could never live without him. They had shared something together that she would never share with another man. The nights they talked while in bed; the honeymoon they shared in London and in Pemberley. Darcy showing off his wife for the first time; beaming from ear to ear, because he knew he was married to the most beautiful woman in the world. Darcy expressing to everyone his love; shocking even the most liberal of minds. Even Elizabeth had wondered how he managed to do that, when before he never would have intimated anything at all.

"Elizabeth, how would you like to go to America?" he asked suddenly.

"America! Pennsylvania --I would so love to go to Pennsylvania and Boston and New York and Virginia!"

He laughed uproariously, "All those places, dearest?"

She snuggled closer to him. "I want to be with you and only you. But yes, all of those places. To see where they fought for independence and to see where just recently they created their Constitution. I would love to see the Declaration of Independence, you do know how much I like Thomas Jefferson's writings."

"I do indeed, my sweet Elizabeth."

"Do you remember the night when I wanted to tell you something. In the garden, under the moonlight, in your arms?" He squeezed her tighter and gave her another passionate kiss. "Oh dear, if you continue that, I shall be lost." She smiled at him.

"My intention. But I will find you." He smiled back at her.

"Under the moonlight, in your arms -- strong arms." She ran her fingers up his arm.

"Again, madam?"

"Most definitely, sir." He took her most willingly. Again.

Elizabeth greeted her husband in the breakfast room. He had come down later than usual and she didn't think it necessary to disturb his oh-so-peaceful sleep. Georgiana and Catherine giggled at the two incessantly. Driving Elizabeth to complete distraction.

"I wish the two of you would share with us what you find to be so amusing. All this giggling is really getting to be too much."

Darcy shot an amused glance at his wife -- she was starting to sound like her mother.

Georgiana looked at Elizabeth, and with a straight face, mentioned. "Kitty and I were discussing my new pets, Lizzy."

Darcy narrowed his eyes and focused them on his sister. She never acted this way. "What new pets?" he asked.

"Well, my new rabbits of course!"

"What new rabbits?"

"Lizzy and Fitzy."

"What?" Darcy said incredulously. "What do you intend to do with these rabbits?"

Georgiana looked at Darcy right in the eye and with all the chutspah she could manage, said. "Breed them."

Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner had just come down when Georgiana mentioned the breeding of rabbits. Poor Georgiana turned about three shades of red, while Darcy, being the object of the joke, turned the palest shade of white. Elizabeth, too shocked to make any comment, stared blankly at her sisters. Catherine laughed loudly, then when Darcy turned to her, she quickly left the room.

"Do you see what just happened here? Elizabeth, what is your sister teaching my sister?"

"Now you just wait one minute here. Georgiana is old enough to speak for herself, and blaming someone else is even more childish. Georgiana is a young woman, and she has a very good mind of her own. Enjoy the joke. It was quite humorous."

"Fitzwilliam," Mrs. Gardiner started, "This is what happens when one is around women all day and every day. You are sport."

Darcy shook his head again incredulously and mumbled something about living without women was easier. Elizabeth playfully slapped his leg.

Darcy took a long sip of the lukewarm coffee and proceeded to finally eat his breakfast.

"Although, I've never had a pet named after me before." Elizabeth stole a look at her husband. Who did finally laugh at the joke.

Elizabeth spent the day with Jane filling her in on the details of the letter she had received from Wickham himself.

"I can't believe it, Lizzy. He asked for more money? What could be the problem? How much does that total to now?" Jane asked astonishedly.

"Eight hundred pounds. I'm afraid that my finances are dwindling down to nothing." She sat down heavily on the sofa. "Fitzwilliam can never know this, Jane. Promise me you will never breath a word of this. Not even to Charles, promise me."

"Lizzy, I will never tell a soul. But these secrets, they will hurt him dearly. Have you thought of that?"

"Every day. But Lydia is family, and if she cannot rely on us, then what does she have?"

"True, but your husband..."

"I am resolved that he never need to find out. Ever." Elizabeth smiled carefully to Jane.

"And if he does?"

Elizabeth shuddered. "He will not."

Chapter IX

Posted on Friday, 18-Sep-98

Editor's Note: This chapter is racier than most of the stories on the Guild, and might not be appropriate for our younger readers. It has therefore been placed on its own page: Chapter IX.

Chapter X

Posted on Tuesday, 29-Sep-98

Elizabeth was all smiles and content with the knowledge that she and Fitzwilliam would have a "real" honeymoon in America. She had read up on the fight for Independence, the Constitutional Congress, and she even read about the black African slaves that plantation owners maintained in the southern states. She wasn't fond of slavery, but knew that her husband's family had always maintained slaves in their foreign land dealings. However, she was vehemently against it.

Four weeks had gone by since she last heard from the Wickhams. Elizabeth managed to be brighter and happier then she was in a long time. Fitzwilliam prescribed to the notion that a happy wife made for a happy husband. Georgiana and Kitty would tease the two horrendously about being too happy.

Georgiana wasn't too happy herself. It turned out that Fitzy and Lizzy, the rabbits, were both male. No breeding in sight for those two. Kitty and Georgiana were devastated. Elizabeth laughed it off and pleaded with her husband to purchase a female, no, two female rabbits, so both of them could enjoy the conjugal felicity that they had every night.

Enough said.

Elizabeth had been tending to some estate matters of her own when a panicked Fitzwilliam came running into the study. He barely had coat off when he tried to explain to Elizabeth what had happened.

"Mrs. O'Sullivan has met with an unfortunate accident, Elizabeth."

Elizabeth gasped. "Is she dead?"

Darcy looked oddly at her. "No. She is not dead."

"Then what has befallen her, husband?" she said quickly.

Darcy sighed, then sat down, "She fell off a horse. Her leg is broken."

Elizabeth was agitated. He came in sounding alarms as if the stables had burnt down. "Is she going to be all right? Has someone come to set the leg?"

"Yes, yes. I've taken care of that."

"Good."

"Elizabeth?"

"Yes, Fitzwilliam?"

"I love you."

She smiled. "I know you do."

"I want you to learn to ride a horse."

"Never!"

"But..."

"Never, ever in my whole life. I will not get on a beast. It's too cruel."

"Elizabeth, it is not too cruel. How do you expect to get to places."

"Walking has always done it for me in the past."

"And when you cannot walk?"

"I stay here at Pemberley. Darcy, I must finish these correspondences. You are boring me to tears. Go find your sister and listen to her play, or better yet, go and see what mischief Kitty is getting her into."

Darcy covered his brow with his hand and groaned. "Do you know what we sound like?"

Elizabeth sighed, and turned around. "Now, what?"

"An old married couple!"

Elizabeth threw her pen at him. "Get out!"